This Is Cinerama (1952)

This Is Cinerama (1952) begins with a black-and-white prologue hosted by Lowell Thomas, who explores humanity's historical efforts to achieve depth and motion through art, machinery, and photography. The film then transitions into the iconic Cinerama format, showcasing thrilling scenes such as the Rockaway Playland Roller Coaster, a mesmerizing Temple Dance from "Aida," breathtaking views of Niagara Falls, and a performance by the Long Island Choir, which serves as an early trial of CineramaSound in black-and-white. The journey continues with serene scenes of the Canals of Venice, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a bullfight and musical performance in Spain, and the grand finale of "AIDA" at La Scala Opera House in Milan. After a 15-minute intermission, the second act starts with a demonstration of "stereophonic sound" by Lowell Thomas. The audience is then transported to Cypress Gardens, Florida, for impressive water skiing and boating stunts. The second half of Act II features a stunning aerial tour of America set to the tune of "America the Beautiful," filmed from the perspective of a low-flying B-25 airplane. The documentary concludes with the credits.